Menopause and depression can go together. This emotional condition is common in women who are going through the menopause, and this could be due to low levels of estrogen in the body. Although menopause is a normal body process, when the physical and emotional symptoms are severe, it becomes hard to cope and can eventually lead to depression.
Physical symptoms of menopause include sleeplessness, night sweats, and hot flushes. Some women become irritable during the onset of menopause and it later coincides with other psychological symptoms. Depression in women experiencing this phase of their life can cause either loss of appetite or excessive eating disorders. It also changes their sleeping habits. Some become insomniacs while others sleep excessively. Changes in behavior also occur, like a loss of interest in activities that they previously enjoyed.
Other symptoms of depression during menopause are a significant decrease in sex drive and difficulty in concentrating. Some women even experience memory problems and in some severe cases, menopausal women start to have suicidal tendencies. Most women, by their 40's and 50's have overcome this phase. Battling depression is not easy but if dealt with properly, you will find yourself becoming a stronger person as you rise above it.
There are various ways to combat depression. Here are some of the methods that you can apply if you go through an emotional turmoil during menopause.
1. Talk to a professional.
There are life coaches and licensed therapists who can help you to beat depression. They are trained professionals so you can trust them with what you are going through. These experts will not solve your problem but they can serve as a helpful guide as you deal with the menopause.
2. Divert your attention by finding a hobby.
Being busy can make a difference. Focusing your attention to other aspects of your life that are more positive can help you overcome depression. Rekindle your passion of a certain hobby or find an interest in a new activity. This will not only make you feel productive, this will also give you a sense of fulfillment and a renewed outlook on life.
3. Spend more time with your family.
Your support system is very important. No one else can help you better than your family. Spend more time with them and find joy in strengthening your bond with your loved ones. Do not hesitate to confide in them and let their unconditional love comfort you.
4. Build a stronger connection with your friends.
Reconnect with your old friends. Spend time to catch up with each other. Surrounding yourself with people who care for you deeply will give you a sense of belonging. Friends in the same age group may also be going through a tough time just like you, so find solace in getting through this difficult phase together.
5. Exercise regularly.
Regular exercise will rejuvenate your body and will give you renewed energy. During exercise, your body produces endorphins or what are commonly known as happy hormones. Physical activity will not only keep your physical body healthy but it will also contribute to your overall well-being.
Once you have overcome any depression and taken control of your body and thoughts, you will realise that menopause can be traversed with minimum discomfort. Menopause requires the right mental attitude to the stage you are at in your life, and once you have come to terms with it you will begin to realise it does have its benefits.
Physical symptoms of menopause include sleeplessness, night sweats, and hot flushes. Some women become irritable during the onset of menopause and it later coincides with other psychological symptoms. Depression in women experiencing this phase of their life can cause either loss of appetite or excessive eating disorders. It also changes their sleeping habits. Some become insomniacs while others sleep excessively. Changes in behavior also occur, like a loss of interest in activities that they previously enjoyed.
Other symptoms of depression during menopause are a significant decrease in sex drive and difficulty in concentrating. Some women even experience memory problems and in some severe cases, menopausal women start to have suicidal tendencies. Most women, by their 40's and 50's have overcome this phase. Battling depression is not easy but if dealt with properly, you will find yourself becoming a stronger person as you rise above it.
There are various ways to combat depression. Here are some of the methods that you can apply if you go through an emotional turmoil during menopause.
1. Talk to a professional.
There are life coaches and licensed therapists who can help you to beat depression. They are trained professionals so you can trust them with what you are going through. These experts will not solve your problem but they can serve as a helpful guide as you deal with the menopause.
2. Divert your attention by finding a hobby.
Being busy can make a difference. Focusing your attention to other aspects of your life that are more positive can help you overcome depression. Rekindle your passion of a certain hobby or find an interest in a new activity. This will not only make you feel productive, this will also give you a sense of fulfillment and a renewed outlook on life.
3. Spend more time with your family.
Your support system is very important. No one else can help you better than your family. Spend more time with them and find joy in strengthening your bond with your loved ones. Do not hesitate to confide in them and let their unconditional love comfort you.
4. Build a stronger connection with your friends.
Reconnect with your old friends. Spend time to catch up with each other. Surrounding yourself with people who care for you deeply will give you a sense of belonging. Friends in the same age group may also be going through a tough time just like you, so find solace in getting through this difficult phase together.
5. Exercise regularly.
Regular exercise will rejuvenate your body and will give you renewed energy. During exercise, your body produces endorphins or what are commonly known as happy hormones. Physical activity will not only keep your physical body healthy but it will also contribute to your overall well-being.
Once you have overcome any depression and taken control of your body and thoughts, you will realise that menopause can be traversed with minimum discomfort. Menopause requires the right mental attitude to the stage you are at in your life, and once you have come to terms with it you will begin to realise it does have its benefits.
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